Good point–discrimination can go both ways. If we’ll just show everyone the same respect, we’ll be doing well. And if everyone who could do that, it would go a long way in fixing the world. However, you’re right that we can’t change anyone but ourselves (and only that by the Spirit, and never quick enough for me!).

A very fitting quote. I read through the others too; thanks for the link!

This one is also applicable:

“We must learn to regard people less in the light of what they do or omit to do, and more in the light of what they suffer. The only profitable relationship to others — and especially to our weaker brethren — is one of love, and that means the will to hold fellowship with them. God himself did not despise humanity, but became man for men’s sake.”
– Dietrich Bonhoeffer

Very well said, Nancy. It reminds me of how we are when we’re young–little kids will play with anybody. It’s only when we get older that we start to seek out those who are “like us” and start the downward climb into segregating ourselves. But with intention, we can reverse that and get back to the commonalities that we all share. Blessings to you, friend.

Oh, I’m jealous of your one-word (even though I need mine). “With” has been such a theme with me for the past several months that I’ve often wondered if that should have been my word. But “with” is so integral to “compassion” that they blend together. Praying you have an amazing year “with”!